The former chief executive of the world's largest salmon farming company has died after an extended illness, according to IntraFish sister publication DN.

Leif Frode Onarheim, 87, served as CEO of the group, then named Marine Harvest, beginning in 2007, first in an acting role following the departure of Atle Eide.

He was succeeded by Aase Aulie Michelet the next year.

Onarheim also worked in other Norwegian industrial groups as an executive and board member, including food groups Nora and Orkla.